Cape Fear Community College to host veteran panel series for America 250 commemoration

WILMINGTON, N.C. (AP) — Cape Fear Community College will host a three-day panel discussion series featuring military veterans as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration marking the upcoming 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

The event is April 6th from 10 A.M. to noon, April 7th from 9:30 A.M. to 11 A.M., and April 8th from 10 A.M. to noon.

All sessions will be held at the college’s Union Station, Room 170, located at 502 N. Front St. in Wilmington.

Each panel will focus on a different era of American military history and include veterans sharing personal experiences from their service. Organizers say the discussions will explore the impact of military service on individuals, families and communities.

The series will begin April 6 with a World War II-themed discussion titled “The War at Home.” The April 7 panel, “Patriotism and Protest,” will examine the Vietnam War era.

The final session on April 8, “What Is War Now,” will address modern conflicts and the evolving nature of military service.

Each session will include a brief historical overview followed by a discussion with veteran panelists.

Topics are expected to include motivations for enlistment, daily life in the military and relationships formed during service. Additional perspectives may include experiences of military family members, community support efforts and long-term impacts such as post-traumatic stress disorder and the transition to an all-volunteer force.

Audience members will have an opportunity to ask questions during each session.

According to organizers, the event is free and open to the public.